While not everyone can strike it rich like 20 year old James Clarkson, who recently won a £7.5 million lottery jackpot, research suggests that some people feel luckier than others – and Londoners top the list.
A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that half of those residing in the capital consider themselves fortunate, with the average Londoner experiencing five lucky moments over the past year.
Whether it’s winning competitions or securing the last parking spot, Londoners seem to savour life’s small victories more than most. Conversely, only 26% of Leeds residents consider themselves lucky, reporting an average of just three fortunate instances in the last year.
The study, commissioned by SPAR UK for its Frozen Fortune competition, also highlighted regional differences in luck. Liverpudlians are most likely to be caught in the rain without an umbrella, while Cardiff locals experience the most flat tyres.
Additionally, Londoners not only report the highest number of lucky moments but are also more likely to receive unexpected acts of kindness, with 27% stating someone had brightened their day in the past year.
Luck is still a significant concept for many, with 54% of Brits believing it plays a crucial role in life’s success, and 69% think some people are simply born luckier than others.
As the gloomy month of January drags on, many Brits are on the lookout for a morale boost. According to a recent survey, over half (54%) of respondents believe that winning some cash would be just the thing to lift their spirits, while 49% are eagerly anticipating some good news, and 44% are hoping for a reduction in their bills.
However, not everyone is feeling downbeat. A significant proportion of respondents (nearly a third) take a more optimistic view, believing that luck has a way of evening out over time, with bad streaks often being followed by a turn in fortunes.
In an effort to tip the odds in their favour, 11% of respondents confess to carrying a good luck charm, while 35% admit to following superstitious rituals, such as knocking on wood or avoiding walking under ladders.
Spokesperson Philippa Harrington commented: “It’s amazing to see how much positivity and joy a small stroke of luck can bring to people’s lives, especially at this time of year.
“It’s fascinating to discover which cities consider themselves the most fortunate, and it’s really interesting to find out what good luck means to people whether it’s winning a competition or avoiding traffic delays.”
Not everyone would be eager to share the news of a big win though with nearly a third admitting they would keep a jackpot win under wraps, fearing that friends and family might start asking for handouts.
Despite this, a generous 78% of respondents said they would be willing to share their winnings with loved ones, with a dream holiday being the top choice for how to splurge the cash.
SPAR UK’s Frozen Fortune competition is giving customers the opportunity to bag one of four £10,000 cash prizes, as well as enjoy free in-store products.
Harrington commented: “”Luck often seems like a mysterious force, favouring some and eluding others, but some people appear luckier because they recognise opportunities to create joy.
“Whether it is securing a prize or looking out for the things that make us smile, we know people are seeking something to lift their spirits this January.”
